Assay testing diagnostic analyzer

ABSTRACT

A diagnostic system with a handling system that has a loading bay to receive and hold a plurality of carriers. An identification device is configured to identify an identifying feature of the carriers to determine the type of contents loaded on each carrier. A transporter transports the carriers from the loading bay to a first or second location depending on the determined type of contents on each carrier. The transporter has random access to the plurality of carriers in the loading bay. A diagnostic process is conducted using the contents. A carrier, such a for reagents, has one or more holding portions, at least one of which can be moved or rotated with respect to the body of the carrier for mixing or stirring the contents of a container coupled therewith. Also, a retention member can be associated with a positioning device, such as a carousel, to lock and unlock the carrier with respect thereto.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of U.S. patent application Ser. No.10/614,485, filed Jul. 7, 2003, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/840,960 filed Apr. 24, 2001, the contentof which is expressly incorporated herein by reference thereto.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a sample and reagent handling systemfor automatically testing samples with a diagnostic module. Moreparticularly, the invention relates to a sample handling system in whichsample and reagent carriers are placed in a loading bay and transportedby a transporter to a different location depending on the contents ofthe carriers. The invention also relates to a diagnostic module with amechanism for locating the carriers in an aspiration position.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the past, sample handling systems had a single path carrier thatwould stop at specified locations as desired for testing. In thesesingle path systems, if retesting or preemptive prioritization of asample were required, the tube would have to travel around the entiremodule system to be tested or retested. This resulted in eithersignificant delay in testing and retesting or very complex, expensivecarrier routing mechanisms.

An example of a single path sample handling device is disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,876,670 to Mitsumaki. In Mitsumaki, a sample carrier, holdinga plurality of test tubes, is transferred to the analyzer modules by atransporting belt driven by a motor. All the sample carriers on thetransporting belt pass through the sampling position for the firstanalyzer module and preferably must be transferred to a receivingposition to reach the sampling position for the second analyzer module.When a sample needs to be retested, then the operator returns the samplecarrier to the beginning of the transporting belt. An urgent samplesupply portion is provided on one end of the belt near the sample supplyportion, allowing urgent sample racks to be processed before the generalracks. In Mitsumaki, the sample handling system processes samplessequentially along the transporting belt and does not automaticallyretest samples.

Another example of a prior sample handling system is disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,665,309 to Champseix et al. The Champseix et al. devicecomprises a holding rack for a plurality of test tubes; a samplingstation for sampling the contents of a tube; and a gripping device forwithdrawing a tube from a selected position on the rack, bringing thetube to the sampling station and returning the tube back to its selectedposition. The gripping device moves the individual tubes from a rack tothe sampling station. However, the Champseix et al., sample handlingdevice does not disclose a method for automatically retesting samples orprocessing stat samples.

U.S. Pat. No. 5,260,872 to Copeland discloses an automated testingsystem for the quality testing of production samples, comprising aloading station for receiving a test tube rack containing a plurality oftest tubes; a pipetting station; a bead-drop station; and a roboticdevice having an arm adapted to pick up a test tube rack from theloading station, move the rack to the pipetting station so the fluidscan be pipetted into the test tubes; move the rack to the bead-dropstation; and return the rack to the loading station in accordance with acomputer program. When the Copeland test tube rack is returned to theloading station the tubes may be removed and disposed of and the rack isthen loaded with a fresh set of test tubes. The Copeland system does notaccommodate for automatic retesting or testing of stat samples.

In the past, reagents have been loaded manually in an automated testingsystem with a diagnostic module. Reagent replacement is often requiredin the middle of testing due to consumption of the reagent in a kit orexpiration of a reagent. In addition, a reagent may be needed when thesystem needs to run more test types, analytes, in a day than there arereagent positions in the analyzer. The manual loading of the reagentsoften resulted in interruption of testing in process or at least a lossof throughput.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to an assay testing diagnostic analyzerand a handling system thereof. In a preferred embodiment, the handlingsystem includes a loading bay for receiving and holding a plurality ofcarriers. An identification device is configured for identifying anidentifying feature of the carriers or containers to determine the typeof contents loaded on each carrier. A transporter is configured fortransporting the carriers from the loading bay to a first or secondlocation depending on the determined type of contents on each carrier. Adiagnostic process is performed using the contents. The transporterpreferably has random access to the plurality of carriers in the loadingbay.

In this embodiment, the identification device is configured foridentifying the contents of the carriers at least as either samples orreagents. The identification device is associated with the transportersuch that the transporter can transport the samples to the firstlocation and the reagents to the second location. Although the loadingbay can have a sample loading area and a separate reagent loading area,in a more preferred embodiment, however, a single loading area isprovided in which the sample in reagent carriers can be positioned inany order. The identification device is preferably configured foridentifying the type of contents independently of where in the loadingbay the carriers are loaded. Most preferably, the transporter cantransport the carriers from and/or to substantially any location in theloading bay and/or the respective first or second location.

An advantage of the present handling system is that reagents can beloaded and unloaded as regents are consumed or expired, withoutinterrupting the operation of the automated testing or reducing thethroughput of the system. Further, the present handling system includesthe ability to exchange one analyte for another, as testing requires,without interrupting the operation of the testing or reducing thethroughput of the system.

A first carrier support member of the preferred embodiment, for examplean aspiration platform, includes the first location and is disposed foraccess by a diagnostic module configured for performing the diagnosticprocess. The transporters can be configured for transporting thecarriers from a loading bay to the first carrier support member andadditionally to move the carriers between different locations on thefirst carrier support member. The transporter can preferably move thecarriers to and from a plurality of first locations on the carriersupport, for example, to position more than one carrier on the supportmember at any time. In an alternative embodiment, the first carriersupport member can include a positioner that can be configured toreceive and move the carriers for access by the diagnostic module fortesting the contents of at least one of the plurality of the containersof the carrier.

Preferably, the identifying feature comprises an optically readablefeature. The identification device can thus include an optical readerthat is capable of reading this feature. The identifying features on thecarriers preferably identify them as holding reagents or samples.Preferably, the individual samples and reagents can also be individuallyidentified by the identification device. Alternatively, the carriers canbe distinguished by other physical differences that can be detected by asensor, or the different types of carriers can be in slightly differentorientations to allow them to be identified by the position of thecarrier. In another embodiment, the identifying feature is anidentifiable physical characteristic, such as the height of the carrier.

A programmable controlling computer can control the movement of thetransporter and other moving parts of the device based on input data anda pre-programmed priority order for processing the contents on thecarriers. In a preferred embodiment, samples to be tested are loadedinto the diagnostic system, and reagent carriers that hold containerswith reagents are also loaded into the system. The reagent carriers aretransported to reagent support members, such as on a carousel,automatically by a transporter. The samples are tested with theappropriate reagents depending on the test being conducted.

A preferred embodiment of a carrier includes at least one containerholding portion that is configured for holding a container with a fluidsubstance, such as the samples or reagents. Preferably the carrier isconfigured to carry reagents, and may include a stirring member formoving at least one of the holding members with respect to the body ofthe carrier. The stirring member can include a first engagement portionthat is engageable with a second engagement portion of the diagnosticanalyzer for moving the container held by the holding portion withrespect to the body of a carrier. This movement is preferably inresponse to relative motion between the carrier body and the secondengagement portion. A plurality of holding portions can be provided onthe carrier, and preferably fewer than all the holding portions areassociated with the first engagement portion such that less than all ofthe containers are moved with respect to the body. This movementpreferably provides for mixing or stirring the contents of thecontainer. In a preferred embodiment, the first engagement member isconfigured for rotating the container that is associated therewith. Theengagement member can be rotatable and configured to roll against thesecond engagement member. In one embodiment, the first engagement memberincludes a gear that is configured for meshing with teeth of the secondengagement member, or a friction wheel that is in frictional engagementwith the second member. In an embodiment in which the carriers aremounted on a carousel, the second engagement member can include a ringgear or friction wheel disposed adjacent a moveable portion of thecarousel to mesh with the gear of or contact the friction wheel on thecarrier. Thus, as the carousel rotates around the ring gear or frictionwheel, the carrier gear or friction wheel causes a rotation of thecontainer mounted therewith. The ratio between the ring gear and thecarrier gear can be made at an integer to facilitate the reading of abar code located on the reagent bottle when the reagent carriers areremoved from the reagent carousel.

The preferred holding portions are configured for gripping thecontainers positioned thereon. Also, the body can have a handle portionto facilitate grasping the loaded carrier by hand. A transportercoupling portion can be provided as well for coupling with thetransporter to enable the transporting of the carrier between differentlocations in the device.

In the preferred embodiment, a positioning device is configured forreceiving and positioning the carriers for access by the diagnosticmodule. This positioning device is preferably provided for receiving thereagent carriers and includes the second location and is the secondcarrier support member. A retention member associated with thepositioning device is configured for locking the carrier to thepositioning device. The retention member is preferably operablyassociated with the transporter for releasing and including the carrierfor the transporter to transport the carrier therefrom. This operativeassociation can be provided by a mechanical connection activated bycontact therebetween, an electrical connection, or it can be provided bythe controlling computer, which tracks the positions of the transporterand the positioning device.

The preferred positioning device is a rotatably driven carousel that isdriven to provide access to the contents of the carrier by thediagnostic module. An activation member of the preferred embodiment isoperably associated with the transporter for releasing the carrier uponcontact between the transporter and the activation member. Acarrier-locking member is preferably configured for moving with respectto the carousel in association with the carrier to lock and unlock thecarrier. The activation member is preferably displaced by thetransporter to move the carrier-locking member to cause the lockingand/or unlocking of the carrier. Preferably, the locking memberdisplaces the carrier with respect to the carousel to move the carrierinto a locked position. The carousel is preferably rotatable orotherwise movable with respect to the activation member, and the lockingmember is preferably mounted to the carousel. The activation and thelocking member are disposed such that the activation member in theinactive position does not interfere with the locking member during thecarousel rotation.

The retention member also preferably comprises a latching memberconfigured for latching to a latchable portion of the carrier in thelocked position, preferably upon relative movement between the latchingmember and the latchable portion. The locking member is preferablymoveable with respect to the carousel and is associated with the carrierto move at least a portion of the carrier with respect to the latchingmember for locking and unlocking the carrier. Additionally, the lockingmember can have a tab that is received in the recess of the carrier toslide the carrier with respect to the latching member.

A carrier sensor can be provided for detecting the presence of thecarrier on the positioning device. This carrier sensor can be, forexample, a Hall effect, optical or a capacitive sensor.

Additional advantages of the invention will be realized and attained bythe apparatus and method particularly pointed out in the writtendescription and claims hereof, as well as from the appended drawings. Itis to be understood that both the foregoing general description and thefollowing detailed description are exemplary and are intended to providefurther explanation of the invention claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the samplehandling system of the present invention;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of the sample handling system of FIG. 1 withaccess doors removed;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of the samplinghandling system with two diagnostic modules;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the sample handling system of FIG. 3 withaccess doors removed;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a carrierpositioner;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a transporter;

FIG. 7 is a top view of another embodiment of a diagnostic analyzersystem according to the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of an aspiration platform thereof,including a sample receiving tray;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a preferred embodiment of a reagentcarrier;

FIGS. 10 and 11 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, of areagent positioning and locking system of the embodiment of FIG. 7 in anunlocked position, with a carousel shown in FIG. 10 in cross-section buthidden from FIG. 11 for clarity;

FIGS. 12 and 13 are top and bottom perspective views, respectively, ofthe reagent carrier in a locked position, and

FIG. 14 is a front view of another preferred embodiment of a loadingrack

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention relates to a random sample and reagent handlingsystem for moving samples and reagents to and from a diagnostic modulefor automatic testing and retesting. The random handling system includesa loading rack for receiving a plurality of carriers. The carriers caninclude several tubes filled with samples. In a preferred embodiment,the sample carriers are arranged in a stationary linear array on aloading rack positioned in front of the diagnostic modules. The operatormay load the carriers individually or in trays for convenient handlingof multiple carriers. Individual carrier slots are provided for loadinghigh priority or stat samples that require immediate processing.

A robotic device is provided to transport the carriers to and from theloading rack and to and from a carrier positioner adjacent thediagnostic module(s). The robotic device has an arm, which is controlledby a programmable computer, moving the carriers as required for testingand retesting. The system includes software that allows users toflexibly configure rules or criteria for retesting samples. These rulescan also be utilized to change to another type of test depending on theresults of a previous test. This can be a very cost effective approachthat when utilized minimizes operator involvement in real time. Thesystem also includes a software capability that can suspend theoperation of the sampler handler in the event the user decides to changethe test request(s) for a particular sample after loading the carrier.

The carrier positioner is located adjacent a diagnostic module forpositioning the carriers so the samples selected for testing can beaspirated by a probe. The positioner includes a carriage connected to alead screw driven by a stepping motor in response to commands from theprogrammable computer. In a preferred embodiment, the carrier positionercan accommodate at least two carriers, allowing the processing module totest one carrier while the transporter loads another carrier onto thepositioner to maintain the system throughput.

A barcode reader is provided to read carrier and containeridentification. A bar code reader in the system reads bar coded labelsattached to the carriers and the sample tubes or reagent bottles as therobotic device passes the carriers by the reader.

Only one robotic device and barcode reader are preferably used for thepresent system, regardless of size. The invention can be dynamicallyconfigured for variable queue sizing depending on the user's particularworkload. Additionally, the total capacity of the system can be changedbased on peak loading requirements that vary across testing segments inthe laboratory.

In operation, the robotic arm picks up a carrier from the loading rackand travels past the bar code reader to identify the carrier andsamples. Tests previously programmed in the computer are assigned toeach tube in the carrier. The robotic arm delivers the carrier to betested to the carrier positioner. The positioner is controlled by thecomputer to move the carrier to a predetermined location adjacent apipetter on the diagnostic module. The pipetter aspirates samples fromthe tube for testing. When the tests are completed on all the tubes inthe carrier, the robotic arm loads the carrier and returns the carrierto its designated location in the loading rack. While the tubes of onecarrier are being aspirated, a second carrier can be moved to thecarriage.

The carrier handling system can include more than one diagnostic module.For example in one preferred embodiment, the carrier handling systemincludes two diagnostic modules, a clinical chemistry test module and animmunoassay module. A carrier positioner is provided for each diagnosticmodule in the system.

The present invention provides a modular random sampling system that canbe adapted to a variety of diagnostic modules. The present carrierhandling system is modular and scalable to different sizes of processingmodules and may be used for single or multiple module systems. Thesystem provides random access to carriers on the loading rack. Thisrandom access capability allows the system to access and process highpriority samples rapidly. This capability also allows the system tobalance the workload of multiple processing modules with differentthroughput capabilities. After samples are processed initially, thesample carriers are returned to their slots in the loading area and thenaccessed again when the initial testing is complete to provide automatedretest capability. This automated retest capability does not require anyadditional intervention by the operator. Random access assures thesamples to be retested can be processed in the shortest possible time.The system is mechanically simple, which minimizes system cost andmaximizes system reliability. The present system is self-contained andcan be assembled and tested independently of the processing modules forease of manufacture and installation in the field.

A system is also provided that processes samples for testing andretesting in a faster time and with more reliability than previoushandling systems. The sample handling system of the invention canadditionally provide faster processing of high priority samples whilemaintaining throughput of routine test samples.

A system can be provided having a robotic assembly for moving a carrierwith a plurality of test samples from a loading rack to a sample testingarea and returning the carrier to the loading rack and having aprogrammable computer for (1) controlling the robotic assembly, (2)selecting carriers for testing based on predetermined priority, (3)achieving positive identification of the carriers and samples, and (4)identifying a breach of positive identification when an access door hasbeen opened or a carrier has been removed prematurely.

A preferred embodiment of the invention is a carrier handling system,generally designated by the numeral 10. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, thepresent handling system 10 includes a loading rack 30 with a pluralityof slots 32 for receiving a plurality of carriers 40. Each carrier 40can hold a plurality of containers 42, such as tubes or cups, filledwith samples. In this example, each carrier 40 can hold five tubes 42.However, the carriers 40 can be configured to hold either more or lesstubes 42 depending on the system requirements.

The sample carriers 40 are arranged on the loading rack 30 in astationary linear array near the processing modules 20. The operator canload the carriers 40 onto the loading rack or platform 30 of a loadingbay individually into slots 32 or in trays 35 for convenient handling ofmultiple carriers. The loading rack 30 can be configured in differentshapes such as circular with slots aligned around the circular tray. Theloading rack 30 includes a routine loading area 31 and an urgent or statsample area 33. In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, theroutine loading area 31 comprises a plurality of bays 36, each bay 36accommodating a tray 35. Each bay 36 includes a door 38 attached to theloading rack 30. Each door 38 includes a latch that is automaticallyreleased by insertion of a tray 35. This latch is preferably difficultto actuate by hand to prevent an operator from affecting the operationof the carriers 40.

The carriers 40 may be loaded onto a tray 35 before loading the tray 35into the loading rack 30 from the front 12 of the handling system 10.Alternatively, a carrier can be loaded onto the tray previously loadedonto the loading rack 30. In this example, a tray 35 accommodates up tofive carriers and the loading rack accommodates seven stat carriers 40and four routine trays 35 holding up to 25 samples each. However, theloading rack 30 may be configured differently to accommodate peakloading requirements that vary across testing segments in thelaboratory.

The carriers 40 are positioned in the tray slots until selected fortesting or retesting. A carrier 40 is released for unloading immediatelyafter retest or after all tests in the carrier 40 are complete and noretests are required. A tray 35 is released for unloading when all thecarriers 40 in the tray 35 are released for unloading. A high priorityor stat carrier 40 is loaded into the high priority sample area 33. Acarrier 40 located in the high priority area 33 is transferred to thecarrier positioner 80 for aspiration and then is returned to the statarea 33 until a programmable computer 60 determines if a retest isneeded. A stat carrier 40 is released for unloading after all tests arecompleted and any retest requests are aspirated.

A plurality of status indicators 74 are provided to indicate to theoperator when a completed tray 35 or an individual carrier 40 in thehigh priority area 33 may be removed. For example, the status indicatorlight 74 is green to indicate the corresponding tray 35 or carrier 40can be accessed or the status indicator light 74 is amber to indicatethe tray 35 or carrier 40 is in process and should be left in placeuntil completed.

The present sample handling system 10 includes a means for detectingthat a new tray 35 or new carrier 40 in the high priority area has beenloaded. A loading rack sensor 98 (not shown) is located in each bay orstat slot to detect the presence of a tray or carrier respectively. If anew tray is detected the contents of the tray 35 are scanned by a firstsensor 102 on the carrier transporter 50 to determine if any carriersare in the tray.

In a preferred embodiment, the sample handling system 10 includes acarrier transporter 50 that consists of a robotic device having arobotic arm 52 to move the carriers as required for testing andretesting (see FIG. 6). The robotic arm 52 has a gripper device 54 thatpicks up the carrier 40 by a support tab 48. The robotic transporter 50includes a drive motor 58 that is controlled by a programmable computer60. In the preferred embodiment, the robotic arm 52 traverses the lengthof the loading platform 30 by a timing belt 56. However, it isunderstood by a person skilled in this art that other means can be usedto move the robotic arm 52.

The transporter 50 is capable of lifting a carrier 40 a height justslightly more than the total height of the carrier 40 holding a tube 42in the loading rack 30. The vertical motion of the transporter 50 iscreated by a lead screw 90 driven by a stepping motor 92. The robottransporter 50 can also rotate a carrier 40 through a 210 degree rangeof motion between positions for barcode reading, access to carrierslots, access to a carrier positioner 80, and access to a reagentstorage location. The rotational motion of the transporter 50 isprovided by a spline shaft 96 coupled to a stepping motor 97. The splineshaft 96 allows the robotic arm 52 to move vertically while maintainingaccurate angular positioning. Although the preferred embodiment includesspecific means to move the robotic transporter, it is understood by aperson skilled in this art that other means could be used to move thetransporter 50.

The present sample handling system 10 also includes a carrier positioner80 located adjacent a diagnostic module 20 for conducting tests on thesamples in the test tubes 42 (see FIG. 5). In the preferred embodiment,the carrier positioner 80 has a plurality of openings 86 for receivingcarriers. The positioner 80 can position at least two complete carriersunderneath the testing point(s) of a processing module, allowing theprocessing module to aspirate from one carrier 40 while the transporter50 loads another carrier 40 on the positioner 80 to maintain systemthroughput. The carrier positioner 80 includes a carriage 81 on a leadscrew 82 driven by a stepping motor 84 in response to commands of thecomputer 60. Although in the preferred embodiment the positioner 80 isdriven by a lead screw 88, the positioner 80 could be driven by otherknown driving means such as a belt, a chain, an air cylinder, or alinear motor. The positioner 80 may be a variety of configurations,including having multiple openings 86 for routine carriers and highpriority carriers.

In a preferred embodiment, the carrier positioner 80 has four openings86 to accommodate the needs of several different types of processingmodules using common hardware to reduce the overall product cost of thesystem (see FIG. 5). The positioner 80 is configured to adapt to avariety of diagnostic modules 20. For example, two openings may be usedfor one pipetter and the other two openings for a different pipetter inthe same diagnostic module 20. Alternatively, two openings mayaccommodate solely high priority sample carriers while the other twoopenings accommodate routine sample carriers.

The robot transporter 50 executes the following six basic carrierhandling operations: 1) pick up carrier 40 from loading rack 30; 2)place carrier 40 into loading rack 30; 3) place carrier 40 ontopositioner 80; 4) pick up carrier 40 from positioner 80; 5) presentcarrier 40 to a barcode reader 70; and 6) scan trays 35 for carriers 40.

In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the robottransporter 50 includes nine sensors for monitoring the correctoperation of the system. Due to the unique value and hazards of thebiological samples being transported, a high degree of capability tomonitor and verify the operation of the transporter 50 is important. Afirst reflective sensor 102 on the transporter 50 is used to determinethe presence of a carrier 40 in a tray 35 or slot 32. A second (carrierslot alignment) sensor 104 is used to verify correct alignment betweenthe transporter 50 and the carrier slots on the loading rack for pick upand placement of the carriers. A third (carrier positioner alignment)sensor 106 is used to verify alignment between the transporter and theopenings 86 in the positioner 80. A fourth reflective sensor 107 is usedto determine if a carrier 40 is present on the positioner 80. Thehorizontal, rotational, and vertical motions of the transporter 50 aremonitored by fifth, sixth, and seventh sensors 108,110,112. An eighthsensor 114, positioned with the rotational motion sensor 110, is used toverify the correct rotational position of the robotic arm 52. Located onthe robotic arm 52 is a ninth sensor 116 used to verify that the carrier40 is properly engaged in the arm 52 for safe transport. Although thepreferred embodiment includes the above-described nine sensors, it isunderstood by a person skilled in this art that other means could beused to monitor and verify the operation of the transporter 50 and therobotic arm 52.

A bar code reader 70 is included in the present sample handling systemto read carrier and sample identification. Bar coded labels are attachedto the carriers 40 and, optionally on the sample tubes 42. The carrier40 is scanned once with a barcode reader 70 when the carrier 40 is firstselected. After being scanned, the carrier 40 is moved by only thetransporter 50 or the linear positioner 80. At this point, all motionsof the carrier 40 generate position and alignment feedback to thecomputer 60, so the carrier identification only needs to be read by thebarcode reader 70 once.

Many types of diagnostic modules 20 can be employed with the presentrandom sampling handling system 10, including immunoassay modules orclinical chemistry test modules. Examples of suitable diagnostic modulesinclude ARCHITECT® i1000, i2000, and c8000 processing modules,manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, Abbott Park, Ill.

In a preferred embodiment of the sample handling system 10 a pluralityof access covers 94 are positioned over the loading rack 30. When anaccess door 94 is opened, an interlock connected to the access cover 94preferably will indicate a breach of positive identification, preferablyrequiring the barcode reader 70 to rescan the carriers 40.

During operation of the present carrier handling system 10, an operatorloads the trays 35 or individual carriers 40 onto the loading rack 30.Either the operator inputs into the computer the patient sampleidentification and the test orders or this information may be downloadedinto the computer 60 from a lab information system. A test order mayrequire a plurality of separate assays. Once a sample is loaded, theprogrammable computer 60 determines the order of the different sampletests based on a preprogrammed priority. The system detects the presenceof the carriers 40 and selects one for sampling. The computer 60activates the robotic transporter 50 to pick up the selected carrier 40from the loading rack 30 and transport the carrier 40 past the bar codereader 70 to identify the carrier 40 and the sample tubes 42, the barcode data is sent to the programmable computer 60. Tests previouslyprogrammed in the computer 60 are assigned to each tube 42 in thecarrier 40. The transporter 50 then delivers the carrier 40 to thepositioner 80. Software in the computer 60 controls the movement of thepositioner 80, moving the carrier 40 to a predetermined locationadjacent a testing site or pipetter on the diagnostic module 20. Thepipetter withdraws the sample from a tube 42 for testing.

When the tests are completed on all the tubes 42 in the carrier 40, therobotic arm 52 loads the carrier 40 and then moves and returns thecarrier 40 to its assigned location on the loading rack 30. While thetubes 42 of one carrier 40 are being aspirated, a second carrier 40 canbe loaded onto the carriage 81 for testing. At this point, the statusindicator 74 will show a hold status for the carrier 40 until thecomputer 60 makes the retest decision. If a retest is needed, thecarrier 40 will be selected again with the same process described above,but without a bar code scan. The robot 50 continues to pick up carriers40, scan and place the carriers 40 as required. The status indicator 74at each tray 35 or slot 32 will show a completed tray of carriers 35 orcarrier 40 when retesting is not required. The operator should removethe completed carrier 40 or tray of carriers 35 when they have beenreleased for unloading.

Positive identification of the carriers preferably is consideredviolated if an access cover 94 of the sample handling system 10 isopened. When an access door 94 is opened all carriers 40 preferably mustbe rescanned before further testing to provide positive identification.Further, positive identification of a carrier 40 is violated if acarrier 40 or a tray 35 on the loading rack 30 is removed prematurely.At this point the carrier 40 or tray 35 that was removed prematurelypreferably must be replaced and rescanned. Slot and tray sensors 98 aremonitored continuously to identify such violation of the positiveidentification. The programmable computer 60 rapidly checks the statusof each individual tray or carrier sensor 98 in sequence. If a change insensor state is observed, the computer 60 can determine that a carrier40 or tray 35 has been removed and the identity of the contents can nolonger be assured until the carriers 40 in question are re-scanned.

In the preferred embodiment, the robot arm 52 cannot access the linearpositioner 80 while it is moving. For example, if the positioner 80accommodates two carriers 40, and two carriers 40 are already on thepositioner 80, no preemption is allowed for a high priority or statsample. The high priority testing preferably must wait until the carrier40 in process is complete. At this point, the completed carrier 40 maybe unloaded, the stat sample will be loaded and processed immediately.However, if only one carrier 40 is on the positioner 80, the stat orpriority carrier may be loaded immediately and after the current sampleis completed, the stat or priority carrier will be positioned foraspiration. Aspiration will resume on the remaining routine samplesafter all the tube samples on the stat carrier are aspirated.

The computer software preferably includes a preprogrammed orprogrammable priority order for processing samples. For example, thecarriers can be selected for processing according to the followingpriority: 1-unload completed carriers; 2 move aspirated carriers to theloading rack; 3-stat or priority retests; 4-stat or priority tests; 5stat or priority carrier pick, scan and move to holding area; 6-routineretests; 7-routine tests; 8-routine carrier pick, scan & move to holdingarea. This ordering of sample priorities has been shown to result inrapid response to high priority samples and maintaining high systemthroughput. It is understood by one skilled in the art that otherpriority schemes may be implemented to achieve different levels ofperformance and responsiveness.

Another preferred embodiment of the carrier handling system is shown inFIGS. 3 and 4 with a plurality of diagnostic modules 20. Thisalternative embodiment is very similar to that depicted in FIGS. 1 and2. Accordingly, like numerals in FIGS. 3 and 4 indicate the sameelements as defined in connection with FIGS. 1 and 2.

The carrier handling system 10′ in FIGS. 3 and 4 includes at least twodiagnostic modules. The diagnostic modules 20 could include immunoassay,clinical chemistry, hematology, or other known diagnostic modules, or acombination of these modules. A carrier positioner 80 is provided foreach diagnostic module 20. A sample handling system 10′ with a pluralityof diagnostic modules 20 enhances the productivity in a lab. Further amultiple module system reduces the requirement to separate or aliquotsamples for distribution to different systems. In the present system,samples can be tested with the different modules without removing themfrom the system. This multiple module system also reduces the spacerequirements in a lab and can lower the costs of operation.

As shown in FIG. 3, a preferred embodiment of the carrier handler system10′ includes a loading rack 30 having seven urgent or priority carrierslots 32 and 12 bays 36 for receiving routine trays 35 holding fivecarriers 40 each.

Only one carrier transporter 50 and barcode reader 70 are preferablyused for the present system, regardless of size. Appropriate controlsoftware is used for the present system to select carriers 40 fortesting and retesting based on a predetermined priority, direct theoperation of the mechanisms, and monitor the system for correctoperation.

The present sample handling system is modular and scalable to differentsizes of processing modules and may be used for single and dual modulesystems. The system provides random access to sample carriers in theloading platform. This random access capability allows the system toaccess and process high priority samples rapidly. This capability alsoallows the system to balance the workload of two processing modules withdifferent throughput capabilities. After samples are processedinitially, the samples can be returned to the loading platform and thenaccessed again when the initial testing is complete to provide automatedretest capability. This automated retest capability preferably does notrequire any additional intervention by the operator. Random accessassures the samples to be retested can be processed in the shortestpossible time. The system is mechanically simple, which minimizes systemcost and maximizes system reliability. The present system isself-contained and can be assembled and tested independently of theprocessing modules for ease of manufacture and installation in thefield.

Several features are included in the present sample handling system toprevent incorrect carrier placement. First, the second and third sensors104 and 106 on the transporter 50 verify correct alignment of thecarrier 40 with the linear positioner 80 and the loading rack 30respectively. In addition, the first sensor 102 verifies the presence ofa carrier 40 on the loading rack 30 and the fourth sensor 107 (notshown) verifies the presence of a carrier 40 on the positioner 80.Further, the system includes frequent software verification of theoperation of the sensors.

Referring to FIG. 7, another embodiment of a diagnostic analyzer systemincludes a loading bay 120 with a loading tray, which is configured toreceive both sample and reagent containers 122,124. To insure stabilityof samples and reagents refrigeration may be included in the loadingtray area. Preferably, the sample and reagent containers 122,124 areheld in sample and reagent carriers 126,128, respectively. Robotictransporter 130 is configured for linking to and transporting both thesample and reagent carriers 126,128. The robot transporter 130 canrotate a carrier 126,128 through a 210 degree range of motion betweenpositions for barcode reading, access to carrier slots, access to acarrier positioner 80, and access to the reagent storage location. Thetransporter 130 preferably has random access to any of the samplecarriers 126 or reagent carriers 128, regardless of where they arepositioned in the loading bay 120. In FIG. 7, the reagent carriers 128are shown in groups to the right of the sample carriers 126, but thepreferred transporter 130 and loading bay 120 can accommodate thecarriers 126,128 in any position and in any order, even with reagentcarriers 128 interspersed between sample carriers 120. In an alternativeembodiment, however, separate bays are provided for sample carriers 126and reagent carriers 128.

The preferred embodiment preferably has an aspiration tray with a samplepositioning shelf 132, as shown in FIG. 8, which can be free of anymechanism to move the sample carrier therealong. The transporter 130 ispreferably configured to reposition the sample carriers 126 along theshelf 132 as needed for access by the diagnostic module 136. The samplecontainer 122 that is to be accessed by the pipetter 134 of thediagnostic module 136 is positioned in a pipetting location, which ispreferably adjacent a notch 138 in an upright wall of the shelf 132. Thenotch 138 is configured to receive the end of the pipetter 134 as it ismoved downwardly towards the contents of the sample container 122. Foraccess to other sample containers 122 and the sample carrier 126, thetransporter 130 repositions the sample carriers 120 along the shelf 132.The shelf 132 is preferably sufficiently large to accommodate aplurality of sample carriers 126, each of which can be repositioned bythe transporter as needed for access by the pipetter 134. Shelf 132preferably has a bottom support surface 142 and a front upright wall 144that is sufficiently high to prevent the sample carrier 126 from slidingoff the shelf, as well as an upright back wall 146. The back wall 146 ispreferably taller than the front wall 144, the carrier 126, and anycontainers 122 that are held in the carrier 126, and promotes sterilityin the diagnostic module 136, which is preferably disposed behind theback wall 146.

In the preferred embodiment, the sample carrier 126 has slots 140aligned axially with respect to the openings in which the samplecontainers 122 are carried. The slots 140 permit scanning of a bar codeor other identifying feature that is present on the containers 122. Inan alternative embodiment, another bar code or other identifying featurecan also or alternatively be present on the sample carrier 126 itself.

A preferred embodiment of a reagent carrier 128 is shown in FIG. 9. Thecarrier 128 has a carrier body 150 that includes holding portions152-154, each of which is configured for holding a reagent container124. The three holding portions 152-154 preferably have a structure fora snap-fit connection to the base of a container 124. Holding portion154 additionally includes nubs 156, which can be supported on upstandingposts 158 and which are configured to clip about an enlarged diameterportion of the base of an alternative reagent container (not shown) thatdoes not have the snap-fit features located on other reagent containers.

Holding portion 152 is configured for moving with respect to the carrierbody 150 to move a reagent container 124 that is attached thereto for aconstant mixing or stirring effect. This is desirable, for example, whenthe reagent includes microparticles that require constant motion tomaintain a generally homogenous suspension. This holding portion 152 ismovable with respect to the body 150 to produce this relative motion.

An engagement portion, such as gear 170, is coupled or otherwiseassociated with holding portion 152, such that the gear 170 is drivableby a member external to the carrier body 150 to rotate holding portion152. Preferably, the gear 170 is connected by a shaft 172 to therotatable holding portion 152, as shown in FIG. 10. In an alternativeembodiment, a different type of engagement portion can be used, or anon-board drive, such as a motor, can be mounted to the reagent carrierbody 150. Although in the preferred embodiment, only one of the holdingportions is rotatable or movable with respect to the carrier 128 forproducing the stirring in the reagent containers 124, in otherembodiments, more than one of the holding portions can be rotatable andmore than one can be associated with the gear 170 for driving the motionrelative to the carrier body.

The gear 170 preferably is disposed near one end of the carrier body150, preferably opposite from transporter coupling 162, described below.The gear 170 preferably is exposed on a lower side of the carrier body150, on an opposite side from the part of the holding portions that areconfigured for connecting to the containers 124. Holding portion 152 canbe elevated with respect to holding portions 153, 154, and preferablyaccommodates a container 124 that is shorter than the containers 124placed on the other holding portions 153, 154, preferably to positionthe upper ends of the containers 124 at substantially the same height.

One end of the carrier body 150 includes a handle portion 160 tofacilitate grasping or holding of the loaded carrier by hand by a user.The handle portion 150 preferably is configured as a curved invertedhook with a space large enough to comfortably receive at least onefigure of the user. Preferably at the opposite end of the carrier body150 from the handle portion 160, a transporter coupling 162 is provided,which is preferably similar to a transporter coupling 145 of the samplecarrier 126 shown in FIG. 8. The transporter coupling 162 of thepreferred embodiment includes an angular hook portion that thetransporter is capable of coupling to for lifting, maneuvering, andtransporting the carrier to different parts of the diagnostic system.

The preferred reagent carrier 128 additionally has an identifyingfeature, such as a bar code 164. The identifying feature can be a one-or two-dimensional bar code, such as a Code 128 type barcode, or otherfeature that can be identified by the system. Referring again to FIG. 7,the system includes an identification device which can have a bar codereader 166 or other identification device adapted to interpret andidentify information of an identifying feature on the carriers 126and/or the containers 124. In another embodiment, the identifyingfeature is disposed on the containers 124, and can by accessed or readby the identification device when the containers 124 are loaded on thecarrier 128. In yet another embodiment, the identification device isassociated with the transporter 130 such that an action of thetransporter 130 can identify the type of contents in the containers 124on each carrier 128. For instance, the transporter 130 can be providedwith a sensor mounted thereon that can sense an identifying feature onthe carriers 128 or containers 124. Alternatively, to provide an initialidentification of the type of contents, the transporter can sense thephysical dimensions of the carriers it is picking up. For instance, thevertical height of the reagent carriers 128 or a portion thereof can bedifferent than the height of the sample carriers 126. In one embodimentthe height at which the sample and regent containers are held in thecarriers in the loading bay is different and sensed by theidentification device to initially determine whether the contents arereagents or samples. As shown in FIG. 14, loading tray pockets 302 catchthe wider reagent container base 304, but do not catch the narrowersample carrier base 306. Thus, the reagent container is positionedhigher than the sample carrier within the loading tray. The height atwhich the transporter 130 contacts or engages to lift the respectivecarrier 126,128 is used by the controlling computer to identify thecontents as samples or reagents. In one embodiment, an initialdetermination of the type of contents is made, such as by determiningthe height of the carrier transported, and an additional positive andindividual identification is made of the contents subsequently, such asby the barcode reader.

In the preferred embodiment, the bar code reader used can read both one-and two-dimensional bar codes, as one-dimensional bar codes arepreferably used on the sample containers, while two-dimensional barcodes are used on the reagent carriers. As discussed above, other typesof identifying features can be used, and the reagent containers 124 andsample carriers 126 can additionally be labeled with identifyingfeatures.

When the transporter 130 is directed by the controlling computer to pickup a carrier 126, 128, it positions the carrier 126,128 for scanning bythe bar code reader 166. This enables the system to determine the typeof contents that are carried on the carrier. If the system determinesthat the transported carrier is a sample carrier 126, then thetransporter 130 will position the carrier 126 in the appropriatelocation on the aspiration tray shelf 132. On the other hand, if thesystem determines that a reagent carrier 128 is being transported, thanthat carrier 128 can be positioned in a reagent positioning area. Thepreferred reagent positioning area includes a carousel 168, which isconfigured to move and preferably rotate about its axis to position thereagents thereon in a location in which they can be accessed when neededby the pipetter 134. The carousel 168 of the preferred embodiment hasone or more platforms 174 that form bays in which the reagent carriers128 are received, as shown in FIG. 10. Retention members, which includea first portion associated with the bays, are configured for locking thecarriers 128 to the carousel 168 and releasing them for the transporter130 to retrieve and transport the carriers 128 to a different locationin the device when they are no longer needed on the carousel 168 such aswhen the reagents thereon have been used up. The portion of theretention member that is disposed on the carousel 168 preferablycomprises fixed stirrups 176 that form a loop with an opening extendingradially therethrough with respect to the carousel 168. Stirrups 176 arepositioned in dimensions to correspond with feet 178 of a second portionof the retaining member, which are associated with the carrier body 150and feet 178, preferably extending downwardly from the body 150, asshown in FIG. 11. The feet 178 of the preferred embodiment preferablyextend downwardly no further than the remaining lowest portion of thecarrier 128, which in the preferred embodiment is the lowest portion ofthe carrier body 150. This enables the carrier 128 to be placed in aflat surface when not being used in the device.

The transporter 130 is operated to lower the carriers 128 onto thecarousel 168, preferably with the feet 178 radially aligned with thestirrups 176. When the carrier 128 is slid radially towards the axis ofthe carousel 168, the feet are received within the opening in thestirrups 176 in an association such that the stirrups 176 retain thefeet 178 against axial or upward removal from the carousel 168.Together, the feet 178 and stirrups 176 comprise latchable portions thatlatch together to assist in substantially locking the carrier 128 to thecarousel 168.

Referring to FIGS. 10-13, an activation member 180 is positioned andconfigured adjacent the carousel 168 for operation by the transporter130 to control the retention members. In the preferred embodiment, theactivation member 180 includes a bar 182 that is accessible by thetransporter 130, such that when the transporter 130 moves adjacent thecarousel 168, the bar 182 is depressed into the carousel 168. Bar 182 ispreferably pivotably attached to a lever 184 that is pivotable aboutaxis 186. At the other end of the lever 184 is a rod 188 that preferablyprotrudes generally axially for contacting a locking member 190. Theactivation member 180 and the locking member 190 are preferably disposedbeneath the carousel 168 on a side opposite from the carrier 128.

As shown in FIG. 10, when the transporter 130 moves towards the carousel168, a surface 196 of the transporter 130 presses against bar 182, whichcauses the lever 184 to pivot about axis 186. The bar 182 is guided by apin 198 that is received in an elongated groove 200 of the bar 182 onits lower side. When the lever 184 pivots, the rod 188 displaces thelocking member 190 radially away from the axis of the carousel 168.

The locking member 190 preferably has a tab 192 that extends upwardlythrough the platforms 174 and protrudes on the upper side of thecarousel 168. The transporter 130 lowers the carrier 128 so that the tab192 is received in an opening 194 of the carrier 128. With the carrier128 seated on the carousel 168 and the tab 192 received in the opening194, the transporter 130 moves away from the carousel to perform anothertransporting operation on a different carrier 126,128. When thishappens, spring 202 resiliently biases the lever 180 to a positionpermitting the locking of the carrier 128 to the carousel. Additionally,the locking member 190 has a guide shaft 204 about which is mounted aspring 206. When rod 188 moves radially towards the axis of the carousel168, spring 202 resiliently returns the lever 184 to its originalposition, and tab 192 displaces the carrier 128 along the platform 174,thus also displacing the feet 178 towards the axis of the carousel 168.This motion causes the feet 178 to latchedly enter the stirrups 176, andtogether with the locking tab 194, substantially lock the carrier 128 tothe carousel 168.

In the preferred embodiment, the physical contact of the transporter 130against the activation member mechanically displaces and operates theactivation member to lock or unlock the carrier 128 to or from thecarousel 168. In another embodiment, the contact between the transporter130 and the activation member can cause an electrically or otherwisedriven mechanism to lock or unlock the carrier. In one embodiment, asolenoid or motor operates the locking member, and this can becompletely controlled by the controlling computer, without directlybeing activated by any physical contact from the transporter 130.

The same motion of the carrier 128 towards the locked position caused bythe locking member 190 preferably also meshes gear 170 with anengagement portion that is associated with the carousel 168. Thisengagement portion is preferably associated with the carousel 168, andin the preferred embodiment comprises a ring gear 208 that is preferablystationary. With the gear 170 and ring gear 208 meshed, rotation of thecarousel 168 about the ring gear 208 spins both the gear 170 and thecontainer 124 mounted to holding portion 152. As seen in FIG. 12, thepreferred container 124 includes internal ribs 210, which improvestirring and mixing of the contents therein.

The actuation portion 180 is preferably mounted to a stationary portionof the device that does not rotate with the carousel 168. The lockingmembers 190 and the rod 188 are resiliently biased by springs 202,206 topositions so that rod 188 is aligned with gaps adjacent the lockingmembers, which are aligned circumferentially along the carousel 168.Thus, as the carousel 168 rotates, the rod 188 passes adjacent to thelocking members 190, preferably without coming in contact therewith, andsubstantially without interfering with or causing the locking members190 to move from their locked positions.

As shown in FIGS. 10 and 12, a carrier sensor 212 is preferably mountedon a fixed portion in the interior of the carousel 168. The carriersensor 212 is configured for detecting the presence of a carrier 128 onthe carousel 168 or a carrier 128 in the locked position on the carousel168. The preferred carrier sensor 212 is a Hall effect sensor that isconfigured to detect the presence of a magnet 213 embedded in the handleportion 160 of the carrier 128. Alternatively, other kinds of sensorscan be used, such as a capacitive sensor to directly detect the presenceof the carrier material, which is preferably plastic. The sensor 212preferably transmits a signal to the controlling computer to indicatethe presence or absence of the carrier 128 in the locked position on thecarousel 168 at the loading location, where the transporter 130 can loadthe reagent carrier 128 onto the carousel 168.

In the operation of the device, the controlling computer keeps track ofthe position on the carousels 128 holding each reagent in the reagentcontainers 124. The pipetter 134 preferably has a pivoting arm 214 thatcan pivot along an arc 216. The rotational position of the carousel 168and the pivoting arm 214 are controlled by the controlling computer tointersect the selected reagent container with the locus of the pipetter134. Thus, the pipetter can draw the desired amount of reagent totransmit it to a diagnostic testing area 218 of the diagnostic module.The pivoting arm 214 is also movable to position the pipetter over thesample container 122 from which a sample is to be drawn, and the drawnsample can also be delivered to a diagnostic testing area 218.

It is understood that the foregoing detailed description andaccompanying examples are merely illustrative and are not to be taken aslimitations upon the scope of the invention, which is defined solely bythe appended claims and their equivalents. Various changes andmodifications to the disclosed embodiments will be apparent to thoseskilled in the art. For example, reagent positioning devices other thencarousels can be used for positioning the reagents and desired locationfor access by the pipetter, and the ring gear that drives the gear onthe carrier to rotate one of the holders can also be driven to rotatewithout requiring any motion from the carousel to mix the microparticlesor any other substance in the storage container.

What is claimed is:
 1. A carrier handling system for an assay testingdiagnostic analyzer, comprising: a loading rack comprising a firstloading bay and a second loading bay, each of the first loading bay andthe second loading bay to receive and hold a carrier; an identificationdevice to identify a feature associated with the carrier to determine atype of a content loaded on the carrier; a positioner having an openingto receive the carrier, the positioner to move the carrier from a firstposition to a second position; a transporter; and a computer controllerincluding software programmed to control the transporter toautomatically: move the carrier from the first loading bay or the secondloading bay to a first location or a second location depending on thetype of the content to perform a diagnostic process using the content byrandomly accessing the carrier in the first loading bay and the secondloading bay, pick up the carrier from the loading rack, place thecarrier into the loading rack, place the carrier onto the positioner,pick up the carrier from the positioner, present the carrier to theidentification device, and scan the feature to determine the presence ofthe carrier in a tray or a slot in the loading rack.
 2. The carrierhandling system of claim 1, wherein the identification device is toidentify the content of the carrier as being a sample or a reagent to beused in the diagnostic process, the identification device beingassociated with the transporter such that the transporter is to move thesample to the first location and the reagent to the second location. 3.The carrier handling system of claim 2, wherein the identificationdevice is to identify the type of the content independently ofinformation on where in the loading rack the carrier is located.
 4. Thecarrier handling system of claim 1, wherein the computer controller isto cause the transporter to move the carrier from a third loading bay inthe loading rack to the first location or the second location.
 5. Thecarrier handling system of claim 1, wherein the first location comprisesa first carrier support disposed for access by a diagnostic module thatis to perform the diagnostic process, and wherein the computercontroller is to cause the transporter to move the carrier from thefirst loading bay or the second loading bay to the first carriersupport.
 6. The carrier handling system of claim 5, wherein the computercontroller is to cause the transporter to move the carrier from thefirst location to another location on the first carrier support.
 7. Thecarrier handling system of claim 6, wherein at least two carriers aredisposed on the first carrier support at the same time.
 8. The carrierhandling system of claim 5, wherein the first carrier support includesthe positioner to receive and move the carrier such that the diagnosticmodule can test contents in the carrier.
 9. The carrier handling systemof claim 1, wherein the feature comprises an optically readable feature,and the identification device comprises an optical reader capable ofreading the optically readable feature.
 10. The carrier handling systemof claim 1, wherein the feature comprises a physical characteristic ofthe carrier.
 11. The carrier handling device of claim 1, wherein thecomputer controller is to control the movement of the transporter basedon input data and a preprogrammed priority order for processing aplurality of samples.
 12. The carrier handling device of claim 1,wherein the carrier is to hold a container that contains a reagent, atleast one of the carrier or the container having the feature to identifythe content as being the reagent.
 13. The carrier handling device ofclaim 1, wherein the positioner includes an elongated track.
 14. Thecarrier handling device of claim 1, wherein the positioner includes adriving means.
 15. The carrier handling device of claim 1, wherein thetransporter includes a plurality of sensors to monitor operation of thesystem.
 16. The carrier handling device of claim 15, wherein the sensorsare to determine the presence of the carrier in at least one of thetray, the slot or the positioner.
 17. The carrier handling device ofclaim 15, wherein the sensors are to verify correct alignment betweenthe transporter and one or more of the slot of the loading rack or theopening of the positioner.
 18. The carrier handling device of claim 15,wherein the sensors are to monitor the horizontal, rotational andvertical motions of the transporter.
 19. The carrier handling device ofclaim 15, wherein the sensors are to verify proper engagement betweenthe carrier and the transporter.
 20. The carrier handling device ofclaim 1, wherein in the first position the carrier is located a firstdistance from a first end of the positioner and in the second positionthe carrier is located a second distance from the first end of thepositioner.
 21. The carrier handling device of claim 1, wherein thepositioner is to receive at least three carriers.
 22. The carrierhandling device of claim 21, wherein the positioner comprises anelongated track and the three carriers are to be disposed along theelongated track.
 23. A diagnostic system, comprising: the carrierhandling system of claim 1; and a diagnostic module to conduct thediagnostic operation.